Echium pininana
£7.50
Out of stock
Echium pininana
A truly breathtaking architectural plant, producing towering spires of vivid blue flowers that become a magnet for pollinators throughout summer.
Echium pininana, often called the Tree Echium, begins as a dramatic silver-green rosette before erupting into an enormous flower spike covered in thousands of electric blue blooms. The sheer scale and intensity of colour make it one of the most spectacular plants for creating impact in the garden. Bees absolutely adore it, with the flower towers often buzzing continuously on warm summer days.
Thriving in full sun and sharply drained soil, Echium pininana is particularly well suited to coastal and sheltered gardens with mild winters. In its first year it forms a large architectural rosette, then in its second year sends up its famous flower spike which can reach several metres tall. Although usually biennial, it often self-seeds in favourable conditions, allowing new generations to appear naturally around the garden.
Specifications:
Height: 2–4m when flowering
Spread: 60–100cm
Flowering: June to August
Position: Full sun
Soil: Very well-drained soil
Maintenance: Low, protect young plants from severe frost and avoid winter wet
Note for Isle of Wight planting:
An exceptional plant for Isle of Wight gardens thanks to the island’s relatively mild climate and coastal conditions. Plant in a sunny sheltered position, especially near walls or gravel gardens, where it can become a dramatic focal point.
Ideal Companion Plants from The Green Standard Range
Verbena bonariensis, airy purple flowers that weave beautifully around the towering blue spires
Stipa gigantea, adds soft movement and complements the architectural height perfectly
Salvia ‘Black and Blue’, deep rich blue flowers that intensify the Mediterranean feel
Gaura ‘Passionate Blush’, delicate fluttering flowers that soften the bold structure
Erigeron karvinskianus, low-growing daisy flowers ideal for spilling around the base
🌟 The Green Standard Tip
Leave some flower spikes to set seed after flowering. In suitable sunny spots you’ll often find young Echiums appearing naturally, giving your garden that relaxed, self-seeding Mediterranean look.